Role Overview for CEO – Premium Pet Food Manufacturer
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a visionary and results-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a high-growth, private equity-backed premium pet food manufacturer based in Austin, TX. Our client is a market leader, renowned for its commitment to creating scientifically formulated, nutritionally superior pet food using only the highest quality, ethically sourced ingredients. With a passionate consumer base and a mission to enhance the health and well-being of pets, the company is poised for its next significant phase of expansion and innovation.
This is a rare opportunity for a transformative leader to take the helm of a beloved brand and steer it toward unprecedented growth. The CEO will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, financial performance, and operational excellence of the company. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) landscape, preferably within the pet food or natural foods sector, combined with a proven track record of scaling a business, driving profitability, and building high-performing teams. You will be the public face of the company, championing its mission and values while navigating the complexities of a competitive market. This role demands a leader who can balance long-term strategic vision with a hands-on approach to daily operations, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and passion for pet wellness.
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will have full P&L responsibility and will be tasked with developing and executing strategies to accelerate revenue growth, expand market share, and enhance brand equity across all channels, including retail, e-commerce, and specialty stores. You will lead an experienced executive team and inspire a dedicated workforce to achieve ambitious goals, ensuring the company continues to set the standard for quality and integrity in the premium pet nutrition space.
Key Responsibilities of CEO – Premium Pet Food Manufacturer
The Chief Executive Officer will be accountable for a wide range of strategic and operational duties, including but not limited to:
Strategic Vision and Leadership
Develop and articulate a clear and compelling vision for the company’s future. Formulate and execute a comprehensive long-range strategic plan that drives sustainable growth, profitability, and market leadership. Continuously assess market trends, competitive landscapes, and consumer insights to identify new opportunities for expansion and innovation.
Financial Management and P&L Ownership
Assume full responsibility for the company’s financial health and performance. Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting, and resource allocation to achieve revenue and profitability targets. Drive cost-efficiency initiatives and optimize capital structure to maximize shareholder return. Ensure robust financial controls and reporting systems are in place.
Operational Excellence and Supply Chain Optimization
Lead all aspects of operations, including manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and quality assurance. Drive continuous improvement in production efficiency, product quality, and supply chain management to support growth and maintain a competitive edge. Ensure all operations comply with safety and regulatory standards.
Commercial Growth and Brand Strategy
Spearhead the development and execution of aggressive sales and marketing strategies to expand distribution channels and increase market penetration. Enhance the brand’s positioning and value proposition through innovative marketing campaigns, digital engagement, and public relations. Oversee new product development from ideation to launch, ensuring a robust pipeline of innovative products that meet evolving consumer needs.
Team Leadership and Culture Development
Cultivate a positive, high-performance, and collaborative corporate culture that aligns with the company’s core values. Recruit, mentor, and develop a world-class senior leadership team. Empower employees at all levels, fostering an environment of accountability, transparency, and continuous learning.
Board and Stakeholder Management
Serve as the primary liaison between the company and the Board of Directors. Provide regular, transparent, and insightful updates on company performance, strategic initiatives, and market dynamics. Build and maintain strong relationships with investors, key partners, suppliers, and the broader community.
Innovation and Quality Assurance
Champion a culture of innovation across the organization, particularly in product R&D. Ensure the company remains at the forefront of pet nutrition science. Uphold the highest standards of product quality, safety, and integrity, ensuring all products meet or exceed regulatory requirements, including the AAFCO nutritional standards for complete and balanced pet foods.
Requirements for the CEO – Premium Pet Food Manufacturer
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned executive with a passion for the pet industry and a demonstrated history of successful leadership. Specific qualifications include:
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive senior leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a C-suite role (CEO, President, COO, or General Manager) with full P&L responsibility for a company or a significant division ($100M+).
Industry Expertise
Proven experience within the Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG) industry is required. Direct experience in the pet food, pet products, or natural/organic food and beverage sectors is highly preferred.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Marketing, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Financial Acumen
Sophisticated financial skills with a deep understanding of financial statements, capital allocation, and value creation. Experience working within a private equity-backed environment is a significant advantage.
Operational Strength
Demonstrable experience in managing complex manufacturing operations and supply chains. A track record of implementing operational efficiencies and scaling production to meet growing demand.
Commercial Leadership
Proven success in driving significant revenue growth through multi-channel sales strategies (e-commerce, retail, specialty) and innovative brand marketing.
Leadership Qualities
An inspirational and decisive leader with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and motivate a diverse team towards a common goal. High emotional intelligence and unwavering integrity are essential.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think strategically and long-term, translating vision into actionable and measurable plans. A data-driven decision-maker who is comfortable with ambiguity and can pivot as needed in a dynamic market.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A lucrative package including a competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term incentive plan with meaningful equity participation.
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive health benefits for you and your family, including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation
A comprehensive relocation assistance package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Additional Perks
A pet-friendly office environment, significant discounts on company products, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the health and happiness of pets and their owners.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is leading the exclusive search for this critical leadership position. We are looking for a candidate who is not only qualified but who also shares our client’s passion for improving the lives of pets. If you are a visionary leader with a track record of driving growth and building exceptional brands, we encourage you to apply.
To apply for this transformative leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy through our Pet Food & Pet Care Industry Executive Recruiters. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We will be in touch with qualified candidates to discuss the next steps in the process.
JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.
